This category contains radiators for custom liquid cooling loops, from slim 120 mm and 240 mm models to large multi-fan units. They suit PC builders who are assembling or expanding a water-cooled system for a CPU, a graphics card or both. Leading brands in our range include Alphacool, EK Water Blocks, Magicool and Barrow.
How to choose a radiator
Size and fan count. Radiator length is usually given in fan sizes, such as 120, 240, 280, 360 or 420 mm. A larger surface dissipates more heat at lower fan speeds, so a loop cooling both a processor and a graphics card generally needs at least a 360 mm equivalent, while a CPU-only loop can manage with less.
Case compatibility. Check which radiator sizes your case supports at the front, top, side or rear, and remember to leave room for fans, fittings and the motherboard components beneath. Thickness matters as much as length, because a thick radiator with fans attached can collide with memory modules or VRM heatsinks.
Thickness and fin density. Slim radiators of around 30 mm fit more cases and work well with quiet, low-speed fans. Thicker models of 45 mm or more have more cooling capacity but need higher static pressure fans, especially when the fins are packed closely together.
Materials. Most radiators are made of copper, aluminium or a mix of the two. Mixing metals in one loop can lead to galvanic corrosion, so choose a radiator that matches the metals in your water blocks and fittings, and use a suitable coolant.
Ports and mounting. Most radiators use G1/4 threaded ports, which is the standard for PC liquid cooling fittings. Extra ports are useful for a drain valve or a temperature sensor, and external radiators need a way to be mounted outside the case.
Radiator brands we carry
- Alphacool: a German custom-loop specialist known for its NexXxoS radiator series in many sizes and thicknesses.
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian manufacturer that makes radiators to match its own water blocks, reservoirs and fittings.
- Watercool: a German brand best known for the MO-RA external radiators, designed for loops with very high heat loads.
- Hardware Labs: an American company known for its Black Ice Nemesis radiators.
- XSPC: a British brand that sells radiators alongside complete liquid cooling kits.
- Koolance: a long-established maker of liquid cooling components, including radiators and quick-disconnect fittings.
- Demciflex: known mainly for magnetic dust filters that protect radiators and fans.
Also in our range: Magicool, Barrow, Darkflash, Stealkey Customs and Coolgate.
Radiator FAQ
What size radiator do I need for a gaming PC?
A 240 mm radiator is usually enough for a CPU-only loop, while a loop that also cools a graphics card is better served by 360 mm or more of radiator area. The more heat the loop carries, the more surface you need to keep fan speeds low. Your case limits what fits, so check its radiator support first.
Is a copper or aluminium radiator better?
Copper is the safer choice for most custom loops because it is widely used in water blocks and fittings and resists corrosion well. Aluminium can work, but it should not share a loop with copper or nickel parts unless the coolant is designed for mixed metals. Keeping the loop to one metal family avoids most problems.
Does a thicker radiator cool better?
A thicker radiator has more cooling capacity, but only if the fans can push enough air through it. With dense fins, low-speed fans lose much of the benefit, so a thick model suits higher static pressure fans. Slimmer radiators often perform similarly at low noise levels and fit more cases.
Can I use any radiator with any water block?
Yes, in most cases, because radiators and water blocks generally use standard G1/4 threaded ports and connect through fittings and tubing. The things to match are the metals used and the tubing size of your fittings. Brands do not need to be the same, although some builders prefer a single brand for a consistent look.
